Which resume format to use when emailing a company?

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I read today in Martin Yate’s book “Cover Letters that Knock ‘em Dead” that when you email someone who doesn’t know you, it is best to cut and paste a resume in text or ascii form directly into the email message instead of including it as an attachment. If you do this, make sure that the formatting, although simple, is clear and easy to read. Many people are hesitant to open attachments from people they do not know, but they may read a cover letter and resume in the body of your email.

If you are told to include your resume as an attachment, act with caution. If you use Microsoft Word, the person receiving it may have a different version or another word processing software altogether so find out before you send the resume so the formatting will be as you intend it. If you can send the resume as a pdf file, it will always look the same, however, if the person does not have adobe acrobat they might be out of luck.

If you have the option of sending a resume through the mail, follow the following guidelines:

- Print the resume and cover letter on matching white or off-white resume bond paper
- Do not fold or staple the resume or cover letter, mail it in a long envelope.
- Address the cover letter by name to a specific hiring official within the company
- Hand address the envelope. It will get more personal attention.

Whether you email or mail your resume and cover letter, follow up with a phone call in about a week to ensure your resume has been received and to find out where they are in the hiring process. Ask for an interview and express your genuine interest.

Good luck!